CAP TODAY Pathology/Laboratory Medicine/Laboratory Management
May 2013—Abbott has introduced in the European Union and other areas outside of the United States a molecular diagnostic test for the detection of influenza A/B and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).
The IMDx flu A/B and RSV assay, developed by Intelligent Medical Devices for Abbott’s m2000 molecular diagnostics analyzer, is performed on nasal and nasopharyngeal swabs from patients with signs and symptoms of respiratory infection. It is a qualitative, reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction test for rapid detection of influenza A/B and RSV.
Analytical data demonstrate that the assay is reactive with 46 different strains of flu A, flu B, and RSV, including H3N2 variant strains. The assay showed no cross-reactivity when tested against 44 viruses and microorganisms commonly found in respiratory specimens.
IMDx intends to seek FDA approval for the flu A/B and RSV assay later this year.
Abbott, 847-937-6100